Managing the salary cap is absolutely crucial when it comes to achieving success in rugby league.
Clubs can't just stack a team with 20 superstars on huge money and watch the wins pile up.
Coaches are paid big dollars to get the most out of players.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of each season is seeing which players develop into stars.
Today I am here to highlight ten such players who achieved that this year. Moreso those who improved in a big way.
Rookies won't be included for obvious reasons. Mark Nawaqanitawase was not considered for this reason.
These are ranked but honestly the difference between them is so small I'd be happy to swap any position, other than the undisputed number one.
Below are the 10 most improved players from the 2025 season:
Honourable Mentions: Jaxon Purdue, Jack Williams & Simi Sasagi.
10. Luke Metcalf
If Luke Metcalf stays fit, he probably comes close to topping the list here. He may very well do so, having won the Dally M medal.
Metcalf was absolutely on track for the highest individual honour prior to his season-ending ACL injury in round 17. He had 31 points when voting went behind closed doors, and leading. He'd finish with 40 and finish eighth.
The Warriors gun had been a tremendous talent since his Holden Cup days with Cronulla. Unfortunately, injuries kept him from reaching his potential at Cronulla, Manly, then back at Cronulla again.
Metcalf delivered on all potential, and then some in 2025. His season was so spectacular that it saw him recently extend his time with the club, on big money.
